Power of Positive Change Nominations Open
Nominations are open for the second annual Premier's Power of Positive Change Awards. The awards program recognizes young people who make a positive difference in their schools and communities.
To be eligible, students from grades primary to 12 must demonstrate leadership by organizing a school or community activity or by showing exemplary conduct in promoting positive attitudes and behaviour.
"Nova Scotia's young people are showcasing their extraordinary leadership abilities by volunteering to help people in need, working to improve their communities, and raising issues that are important to them," said Premier Darrell Dexter. "I am proud of the accomplishments of our young people and look forward to formally recognizing them at this year's annual Power of Positive Change Awards."
The first Power of Positive Change Awards ceremony took place at Province House in Halifax in June 2009. Students from grades four to 12 received awards for achievements such as: developing a youth outreach program to promote the importance of diversity in the community; promoting literacy among youth; raising awareness of neurological disabilities; and developing a program that matches volunteer youth with non-profit, charitable organizations.
"The caring and enthusiasm portrayed by last year's Power of Positive Change Awards winners was very inspiring," said Education Minister Marilyn More. "Students of all ages are making a real difference, and it is an honour to reward them for their achievements.
"I encourage people to nominate a student who is doing great things for their school and community."
The deadline for nominations is March 31. Up to 10 awards will be presented. Bursary winners will be notified by letter from the Premier's Office by June 1 and invited to attend a ceremony hosted by the premier in late June. The prizes are a $2,000 bursary for post-secondary studies, apprenticeship training, or other educational opportunities.
Criteria for the Premier's Power of Positive Change Awards and nomination forms are available online at www.powerofpositivechange.ca .
Successful candidates are selected by a committee comprised of representatives from the Premier's Office, the Department of Education, the Nova Scotia Teachers Union, the Nova Scotia School Boards Association, the Nova Scotia Federation of Home and School Associations and La Federation des parents acadiens de la Nouvelle-Ecosse.